Lionel started its operations in 1900. Since the establishment by its founder, Joshua Lionel Cowen that year, Lionel has dedicated itself to the production of model trains. The original company unfortunately folded in 1993 but was resurrected from bankruptcy May 2008 as a reorganized company under a new CEO.

Lionel O Scale Model Trains were first unveiled in 1915. The original Lionel trains doesn't fit on the Gauge 2 tracks when it was first built. Eventually, it was retooled so that it could fit with the current Gauge 2 track. The O Scale type of trains today is the premier product of Lionel. Their modern trains are usually commemorative of well-known trains or as a tribute of trains that is closely associated to movies.

What made Lionel O Scale Model Trains different from other trains is its legacy. It is believed that Lionel is one, if not, the most popular brand of model trains around the world. Since its innovative electric model train that was designed by its founder to the modern Lionel O Scale Model Trains, Lionel is still a sought after brand by established hobbyists and amateurs alike. Because of its resurrection from bankruptcy, Lionel will be releasing more model trains with the O Scale as its major product.